ARobe community group has been praised by South Australian Governor Frances Adamson for its invaluable contribution to the seaside residents.
“I congratulate the Robe sub-branch of the RSL for its ongoing support of our veterans and their families,” Ms Adamson said at a recent ceremony to mark the centenary of the Robe war memorial.
It was the Governor’s sole public speech during the two-day vice-regal visit.
“Because you care, because you have experienced the sacrifices made, because you know of the challenges and importance of healing the wounds that are both physical and mental.
“I have visited the Robe RSL rooms and was honoured to meet three members who are well into their 90s – Graham Snook, Brian Nankivell and Vic Dawson who is hale and hearty at 99.
“I also viewed the honour board medals and citations demonstrating the outstanding commitment of the region’s veterans.
“I was also struck by how the RSL is so much more than its clubrooms.
“You are an integral part of this community.”
Ms Adamason praised the generosity of the group, which extended across many aspects of the community.
“You bring together older people for morning teas, make runs to Mount Gambier for shopping or appointments, the rooms are used for childcare, the kindy is next door and you work with local schools to tell the stories of our veterans’ service,” she said.
“In that way you enable veterans, their families and the wider community to be in touch with each other.
“You are part of a caring community.
“You continue to serve.
“Thank you for the honour you paid me by inviting me to be part of this ceremony.
‘I am honoured to join you to commemorate the Centenary of the Robe War Memorial, in this lovely setting.”
Ms Adamson said the Robe memorial was unveiled 100 years ago to the day as a mark of respect and remembrance.
“Now, it is not only a symbol of the reverence in which we hold those who fought in World War I and subsequently World War II and the gratitude we feel towards them; it is a place to reflect, respect and honour those who have served, are serving and will serve,” she said.
“It is a constant reminder of not only the price of war, but also the resilience of the community.
“Sixty names of World War I and World War II soldiers are etched on its sides, which reminds us, starkly, of the impact of their service on individual families and communities within the South East.
“This is also a place where we can honour those who did not return home, forever resting in far-off lands.
“Memorials are also important points of reference so each new generation can better understand how our lives today have been shaped by the fortitude and service of others.
“As a diplomat I was regularly struck by the respect and appreciation the people and leaders of many countries have for our valiant Australian service men and women.
“I think particularly of school children of the Somme region, their parents, their mayors and the Prime Ministers and Presidents of France, the people of the Republic of Korea, our American and British allies and the American and British people.
“It is wonderful that many of the family members of those service members who either enlisted from the Robe district or settled here after their service are here to witness the dedication of 20 new plaques.
“Lest we forget.”
